Lip Augmentation Chicago

In the past, lip augmentation with injectables was mostly reserved for older women who wanted younger looking lips. Today, that has changed. There is an large increase in young women requesting lip augmentation, possibly the result of social media and celebrity influences. Older women tend to want lip augmentation to restore the fullness their lips had when they were younger and fill in lip lines, also known as “smokers lines.” Younger patients typically do it because they feel it makes them more attractive and more poportionate, which is often true. Natural-looking volume and Dr. Moynihan’s “less is more” approach, is best.

My Philosophy:

As we age, we lose collagen, which our lips are mostly made up of, causing the boarder and the center of the lips to disappear, aging ones face. Dr. Moynihan performs lip augmentation in his office-based facility. The procedure takes about fifteen minutes to complete. For temporary augmentation, the filler primarily used is Juvederm® or Restylane®. It is injected into the lips with a needle, providing immediate results lasting six and twelve months.

For permanent augmentation, Dr. Moynihan uses medical-grade liquid silicone which is also injected into the lips with a needle using a mico-dropplet technique. Patients typically require 3-6 sessions of silicone injections spaced at least six weeks apart.

Recovery after lip augmentation is generally mild. Some swelling may occur but typically resolves within twelve to twenty-four hours. Patients can usually return to work on the same day or the day after the procedure. Temporary lip augmentation procedures will require follow-up treatment in order to maintain the results.

For patients undergoing a face lift or minilift who are also seeking lip augmentation, Dr. Moynihan will use the patient’s own SMAS. This is a sheet of collagen-rich material that can be implanted into the lips through a small incision in the corner of the mouth. Results usually last between nine and twelve months.

What is lip augmentation?

Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure which can enhance the size and shape of the lips on either a temporary or permanent basis. There are a variety of injectable fillers which may be used to enhance the lips including Juvederm® and Restylane®.

Who is a good candidate for lip augmentation?

Women and men over 18 who are looking to improve the appearance of undersized lips may be good candidates for lip augmentation. It’s often advised that patients first undergo a temporary procedure which will allow them to evaluate the lips in the augmented state before proceeding with a permanent procedure.

What is Juvederm® and Restylane®?

Restylane® is an injectable filler made of non-animal derived hyaluronic acid. It may be used to enhance the lips.

What happens during the lip augmentation consultation?

During the consultation, your lips will be examined, your medical history taken, and your goals discussed. A treatment plan will be recommended and all details of the procedure explained including the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks, and the costs.

Where is lip augmentation performed?

Dr. Moynihan performs lip augmentation in his office-based facility.

What is the anesthesia used for lip augmentation?

A nerve block, similar to what is used at your dentist office, is used for a comfortable, pain free experience.

How is lip augmentation performed?

For lip augmentation with injectable fillers, the filler is injected directly into the lips. For lip augmentation with implantable sheets, small incisions are made at the corners of the lips on the inside of the mouth and the sheets are then inserted.

How much pain occurs with lip augmentation?

Lip augmentation is generally associated with little pain or discomfort.

What is the recovery like after undergoing lip augmentation?

There is generally very little recovery associated with lip augmentation, though some minor swelling and bruising can occur during the first few days.

How much time should I take off from work after my procedure?

Patients are often able to return to work on the same day of the procedure or one day after.

Are there any risks associated with lip augmentation?

All surgery carries some risk. For lip augmentation, this may include cosmetic asymmetry and granuloma formation.

Will my insurance company cover the cost of lip augmentation?

Patients will need to check with their own insurer, though lip augmentation is generally not covered by insurance when performed solely for cosmetic purposes.

How long do the results of lip augmentation last?

In general, Juvederm® and Restylane® lasts for six to twelve months in the lips.